Council asks for views on Public Spaces Protection Orders – controlling your dog in public

Surrey Heath residents are being asked to have their say on proposals to help address anti-social behaviour in public places around the borough. Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) were created by the 2014 Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, to regulate activities in public that have a detrimental effect on the local community.

The council is considering introducing a PSPO to help address nuisances or problems in local public places. A PSPO would assist in taking steps to improve issues such as alcohol and substance misuse, begging and irresponsible dog ownership.

There’s a range of ways to express your views before the consultation closes on 17 January 2017. More information, including an online questionnaire, map and a list of the proposed areas for restrictions, is available at: www.surreyheath.gov.uk/PSPO

The survey responses will be analysed and be used to inform the council’s decision about how the proposed Public Spaces Protection Order is progressed. All answers will be kept confidential.

Surrey Heath Community Portfolio Holder Cllr Vivienne Chapman said: “This PSPO Consultation is a great opportunity for members of the public to have their say on important issues and I would encourage people to take part, whether online, by post, or in person at one of the drop in events.”

The council’s Executive will make the final decision about the Public Space Protection Order on a date to be confirmed, with the details of the meeting and subsequent decisions to be published on www.surreyheath.gov.uk